amberntaylor1 :
Not my information, but came from Google.
The Hooded Pitohui (Pitohui dichrous) of New Guinea stores powerful batrachotoxin (specifically homobatrachotoxin) neurotoxins in its skin, feathers, and dander. It acquires the poison through its diet, primarily by eating toxic Choresine genus beetles.
Effects on Humans and Handling
• Physical Contact: Touching the bird or handling its feathers causes immediate local reactions, including tingling, numbness, and a sunburn-like burning sensation.
• Mucous Membranes: If the toxin transfers to the eyes, nose, or mouth (such as rubbing a cut or wiping your face after handling), it triggers intense burning, irritation, watery eyes, and sneezing.
Effects on Predators and Ingestion
• Deterrence: The bright orange-and-black aposematic plumage acts as a visual warning signal alongside a distinct foul odor to keep predators away.
• Severe Ingestion Risks: While casual handling is generally not fatal to humans, consuming high amounts of the toxin can lead to extreme neurological disruption, mild to severe paralysis, cardiac arrest, and death in smaller animals or potential predators.
So, maybe that person is okay?
2026-11-02 07:16:50